[Rhett]

The folks over at GM Authority have gotten their hands on some early details on the different trim levels that will be available on the 2019 Blazer. According to the site, the Blazer will be offered in four different versions including: the L base model, the second level trim called the Blazer, the sporty RS and the top end Premier.

The L will be powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and be available only with front-wheel drive.

The second-tier Blazer can be had with that same engine, which delivers 193 hp, or with a 3.6L V6 generating 305 hp. Buyers can also choose between the front-wheel drive and an all-wheel drive system.

As for the sportier, more dynamic RS trim, it is offered only with the V6, while offering the same choice of FWD or AWD drivetrain. For this version leather seats will be included standard.

Lastly, the top-end Premier variant will be powered by the V6 engine, and offer the same FWD/AWD choice to buyers. Leather seats will also be standard on this trim.

Take note that Chevrolet says the Blazer will have a maximum towing capacity of 2,040 kg, when equipped with the V6 engine.

 

[Layne]

Has there been an mention as to whether or not the V6 in the RS variant has been tuned? I don't think many people are going to go for it, if its just some sporty accents that are being added.

 

[trailblazer]

So far I don't see information suggesting they did increase power and for such a big vehicle I can see why. Any increases in power might not be too effective given its weight.
Chevy can win this game by keeping it to mostly aesthetics for now.

 

[Rhett]

300hp should be more than adequate to get the Blazer moving. I do wonder what the difference in fuel economy will be like between the 2.5 and 3.6. I feel like the 4 cylinder is going to have a tough time powering something this large/heavy.

 

[Layne]

There are plenty of SUV's which utilize 4 cylinders effectively. Probably the best example of this is the X1, with its 2.0l turbocharged engine kicking out 228hp.

 

[trailblazer]

There are plenty of SUV's which utilize 4 cylinders effectively. Probably the best example of this is the X1, with its 2.0l turbocharged engine kicking out 228hp.

But the X1 is in a segment that is more closer to the size of the chevy trax than the Blazer.
Here, offering a I4 vs V6 is massively debated because by offering a 4 cylinder they're redefining whats expected of this segment.

 

[Rhett]

If they were going to settle on a 2.5l engine for the base model, they should have at least made it turbocharged. 193hp doesn't seem like nearly enough for a vehicle of this size.

 

[trailblazer]

if its really going to rival the Wrangler and a future Toyota FJ successor then they need to target the 270-300 horsepower range

 

[Layne]

The Blazer is more of a rival of the Cherokee than it is the Wrangler. We already know that Chevy has gone with street performance over off road capability with the redesign.

 

[trailblazer]

Actually you're right, its more along the lines of a Tahoe rival but even then the Tahoe has preceded the Wrangler into more luxurious territory. Older generations came in closer or at least it did once they hit the used market in greater numbers compared to new.

 

[bowtie]

even though its based off a platform that's also shared by some other very mild SUV's from GM, i won't mind paying a few grand more for an off-road kit.

 

[Rhett]

Considering the significant issues and problems that are currently plaguing the new JL, I think it would be quite easy for consumers to be swayed to alternative options. Namely the upcoming Bronco, which Ford has already indicated will focus on off road capability.

 

[trailblazer]

What should be giving Ford even more of an advantage is how much capital they're freeing up by moving more towards utility vehicles and not diversifying as much.

 

[Kayfive]

GM seems to be following suit with the big cuts Ford has made to their sedan lineup. Looks like six models are currently on the chopping block including their electric Volt.